Happy 1st Birthday in Heaven, Annie

Dear friends, it seems like just yesterday that I was writing a post about Annie’s birth, and now it has been one full year since we welcomed her into the world. We are celebrating Annie’s birthday today by going to Mass, making a visit to the cemetery, and then having some fun together as a family. I have a feeling that we may be making a trip to our favorite cupcake spot, spending some time at our neighborhood pool, and just enjoying each other’s company.

Sweet toes

I have tried on several occasions to write a thoughtful post leading up to Annie’s birthday, but words seem to be failing me right now and I decided to share some pictures instead. We were blessed to have pictures taken by a photographer from the organization Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep, which I would recommend to anyone going through a similar situation, and these are the pictures that I am sharing here.

All of our hands

Part of what makes it hard to share about Annie’s birth is that there is so much to say. We felt tremendously loved and encouraged on the day of her birth, and we were overwhelmed with gratitude for the support of family and friends. We also treasured every moment that we spent with our sweet daughter, whom we had waited so long to hold in our arms. At the same time, the day was also tough on many different levels, and we had to do battle against our exhaustion and our sadness so that we could make the most of Annie’s day, for truly, we felt that this day was entirely about honoring her and introducing her to our loved ones. Even as I write this post, I can feel the weight of that exhaustion from a year ago.

Lots of kisses for Annie

We chose the name Anastasia because it means “to stand again,” and we joyfully believe with all our hearts that Annie is standing in the company of the saints, alongside her big sister Lucy. God is so good that He has allowed us to be parents to these two precious daughters, and we are honored to celebrate Annie today.

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Beautiful pictures of your sweet baby girl. Prayers of comfort today for you and your family!

Kat0427

Thank you, Mama A!

http://www.buildingcathedrals.com/ Kellie

Praying for your family and thinking of your beautiful Annie Rose today. I can’t believe it has been a year since our trip down to Houston to meet her. I have been forever changed by the life of your two girls. Thank you for your love and generosity. You truly allowed God to work through Annie and Lucy in marvelous ways. Love you.

Steph

Thanks for continuing to share your lives–I can’t tell you how important I think it is that these stories be shared for everyone to remember and revere every human life. I know that it’s work–as your remembrance of exhaustion tells–so thank you so very much. I didn’t realize the meaning of Anastasia–so beautiful! God bless you and comfort you in the palm of his hands today.

buildingcathedralstexasmommy

What beautiful thoughts and pictures. We are praying that you all have a blessed birthday celebrating Annie and God’s mercy.

Bethany

I am praying today for you all and remembering your sweet Annie Rose on her heavenly birthday. As always, I am deeply moved by your enduring peace and thankfulness in the midst of sadness. Thank you for teaching me more about trust, love, and hope through your precious baby angels. Much love, my friend, to all of you!

Juris Mater

Katrina, so beautiful. Thank you.

KD

Beautiful photos. Thank you for sharing. You and your family are in my prayers. I always listen for Lucy and Annie’s names during Mass and say a special prayer for all of you then.

Lindsay Schlegel

These photos are beautiful. I love the one with all of your hands. Thank you for your witness to life and your willingness to serve God by being a mama–and sharing it to inspire me. Many blessings to you and your family today!

Kathy

I thought of Annie yesterday (6/12) and said a pray for all of you. In our family we have 2 relatives that share a June 12 birthday – so I thought of Annie while we celebrated. Hard to believe has fast a year has passed. Those are beautiful pictures – precious keepsakes. I am happy that there is an organization like “Now I Lay me down to sleep” but it is so sad that there is a need for them. May Our Lady grant you the peace and fortitude you need as you follow God’s path. She, like you Katrina, has been there.

JMB

My thoughts and prayers are with you. God bless you and your family. You are a rock and a wonderful example of Christian motherhood.

Lisa

Thank you, Kat, for sharing these pictures. What a beautiful daughter.

Thank you for sharing your faith with all of us. You and your family remain in our prayers.